Structural equation modeling to detect predictors of breast self-examination behavior: Implications for intervention planning

Breast cancer is the most frequent malignant tumor among Chinese women. Breast self-examination (BSE) is a simple, effective method for early detection of screening and it is essential for the prevention and control of breast cancer. The aim of this study was to create a hypothetical model to determine the factors influencing women's BSE behavior in Eastern China.

A survey was conducted using an online questionnaire and targeting 1200 women aged 18-70 years in Eastern China. Collected data were analyzed using ibm spss 25.0 and amos 24.0 software.

The final model showed a desirable fitness to sample data. A direct positive relationship exists between knowledge on risk factors and BSE. A direct positive association was found between positive attitudes and BSE, while negative attitudes have a direct negative impact on BSE. Objective factors not only had a significant direct impact on BSE, but also directly affected the positive attitudes. Positive attitudes play an intermediary role between objective factors and BSE.

Knowledge on risk factors about breast cancer, attitudes toward BSE and objective factors are new predictors which may influence BSE by using the structural equation modeling method.